A root canal can effectively eliminate dental pain and infection, but did you know further treatment is often recommended afterwards to protect the treated tooth? Given the great degree of improvement the root canal provides, you might wonder if further steps to protect the tooth are truly necessary. Understanding the purpose of dental restorations after root canal can help you make well informed decisions about your oral health. So, let’s explore why this next step is nearly always an essential next step to preserve your long-term dental wellbeing.
Why consider dental restorations after root canal?
After a root canal, your tooth is no longer infected, but it is more fragile than before. The procedure removes the infected pulp, which eliminates pain and prevents further damage, but that also leaves the tooth hollow and more prone to fracture or wear. So, dental restorations are commonly recommended at this point, to strengthen and protect the tooth.
Here are key reasons why covering a tooth after a root canal is essential:
Strengthening the tooth
Inevitably, the structural integrity of a tooth is reduced after a root canal. Without the pulp, the tooth becomes brittle and more vulnerable to cracks or breaks under everyday pressure from chewing. In these cases, dental restorations after root canal provides the necessary reinforcement to prevent fractures and maintain the tooth’s function.Sealing and protecting against re-infection
A well-fitted restoration seals and shields the treated tooth, protecting it from bacteria and plaque that could potentially cause re-infection. This barrier is crucial for maintaining the long-term success of your root canal treatment and preventing the need for further procedures.
Restoring full function
When you’ve had a root canal, the tooth can become weaker and less effective for chewing. However, with a restoration, such as a crown, the tooth’s full function can be restored, ensuring that you can easily and comfortably bite and chew. Getting the tooth back in action prevents the overuse of the surrounding teeth, which can lead to uneven wear or damage.
Preventing further damage
Leaving a root canal-treated tooth without a restoration can put it at risk of significant wear and tear, especially if it’s a molar. These teeth, in particular, bear the brunt of your chewing force. A restoration helps distribute the pressure of your bite evenly across your teeth. This reduces the risk of further damage so you can continue using your tooth all throughout the years.Making your treated tooth look nicer
In addition to functional benefits, a dental restoration can enhance the appearance of your smile. A tooth that received root canal therapy may darken or appear discoloured over time. A crown or veneer can restore the natural look of the tooth, blending seamlessly with your other teeth and improving your overall smile.
Long-term health investment
Choosing dental restorations after root canal is a proactive measure to safeguard your oral health. It extends the lifespan of the treated tooth and helps you avoid future complications, such as extraction or more extensive restorative treatments later on.When to probably get a full crown
While a full crown is not the only tooth cover option after a root canal, dentists often recommend them in specific cases to ensure the treated tooth’s long-term health and functionality.
Tooth structure compromised by decay
When a significant portion of the tooth is lost due to decay, the remaining structure becomes fragile. Without a crown, the weakened tooth may not withstand the forces of biting and chewing. A crown covers the entire tooth, providing the necessary reinforcement to prevent it from collapsing or breaking under pressure.
Pre-existing or new cracks
Cracks or fractures can compromise a tooth’s integrity. If these issues are present before the root canal, or if they develop during the procedure, the tooth becomes vulnerable to further damage. A crown acts as a protective shell, holding the tooth together and preventing additional fractures. This support is crucial in maintaining the tooth’s stability and preventing the need for extraction.
Large fillings needing extra stability
After a root canal, some teeth require large fillings to replace the removed pulp and decayed areas. While fillings can restore some functionality, they may not provide sufficient strength for long-term use, especially if the tooth has lost a lot of its original structure. A crown offers additional stability and durability, ensuring the filling stays intact and the tooth remains functional.
Back teeth under heavy pressure
Premolars and molars, located at the back of the mouth, endure significant chewing forces daily. These teeth are more prone to fracturing due to the heavy pressure they experience. Crowns are almost always recommended for back teeth after root canal treatments because they provide the necessary strength to withstand these forces. This prevents fractures and ensures the tooth remains functional.
When not to get a full crown
In some cases, dentists may recommend alternative restorations instead of full crowns, depending on two key factors:
Tooth structure: If a substantial portion of a healthy tooth remains after the root canal, less invasive options might suffice. When the tooth’s integrity is largely intact, alternatives may provide enough strength without the need for a full crown.
Tooth location: Front teeth (incisors and canines) generally endure less chewing pressure compared to molars and premolars. As a result, these teeth may be suitable for alternatives, especially if the remaining tooth structure is strong.
Common alternative restorations after root canal
Conservative crown-lay: A crown-lay is a more conservative option compared to a full crown. It covers only a portion of the tooth, preserving more of its natural structure while still offering necessary support and protection. This option is ideal when the tooth has minimal damage, and maintaining as much of its integrity as possible is a priority. Crown-lays are especially useful when added strength is needed but a full crown may be excessive.
Dental inlays/onlays: Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations that are bonded to the tooth, offering more strength than traditional fillings and functioning like partial crowns. Inlays are used when damage is confined to the centre of the tooth, while onlays cover one or more cusps. These restorations are ideal when the tooth has moderate damage, providing durability and stability. However, where there is extensive structural loss, or the tooth is under heavy chewing pressure, such as molars, a full crown might still be necessary to ensure long-term protection.
Dental fillings: For teeth with minimal structural loss, composite resin fillings can be an effective alternative. These tooth-coloured materials bond directly to the tooth and provide a natural appearance. This option is often suitable for front teeth or small cavities that don’t compromise the tooth’s strength. Nonetheless, it’s worth noting that composite fillings may not be durable enough for back teeth or large restorations that require much stronger support.
Get informed about the right smile strategy for you
Making informed decisions about your unique dental care needs makes a world of difference to your future, especially after a root canal. Whether you go for a crown or an alternative restoration, thoroughly understand your choices so you can maintain the health and functionality of your teeth for years to come. Consult with your dentist, letting them know your concerns, so they can evaluate your unique situation. The extent of any damage and the tooth’s location are just two of the numerous factors they need to consider in order to recommend the most suitable restoration to reach optimal oral health.
Getting that post-root canal step right sets vital foundations for your ongoing oral health, but there is more to oral health success. Other steps include practising excellent oral hygiene and committing to regular dental visits, recognising your dentist is a valuable partner in your oral health journey. Don’t hesitate to communicate any concerns or questions you may have! Nobody else would be more glad to guide you toward the best choices for your dental well-being.
So, will it be crown or no crown, inlays or onlays, or even something else? The answer varies from person to person and tooth to tooth, but one thing remains constant — your best oral health future lies in your choices now. Stay well informed, openly communicate with your dental team, and proactively maintain a great oral care regime. That’s how you pave the way for a vibrant and lasting smile, especially after a root canal.